Love, Liquor and a Little Sarcasm: Laura & Elliot’s Dodford Manor Wedding

Danielle Winship
Aug 21
4 min read

How a boho-chic Dodford Manor Wedding became the ultimate feel-good day with a cheeky twist.

From the very first time I met them, I knew this day was going to be special. They were hilarious, quick-witted, and dripping with sarcasm in the best way. Honestly, my cheeks hurt from laughing after every single call.

But behind all the banter and laughter was a love story that makes your heart melt: childhood friends turned sweethearts. Their bond was effortless, authentic, and so inspiring to witness.

The Setting: Barn, but make it Chic

Laura & Elliot had impeccable style — the type of couple who knew exactly what they liked from the get go! They channelled that same energy into their wedding, creating a celebration at Dodford Manor, that was elegant and sophisticated yet blended effortlessly in the rustic barn setting. Every inch of this wedding was made for them.

Their vision for an autumnal wedding came alive in the most beautiful way. I had the absolute joy of providing all of their flowers, while the talented Nerissa Eve worked their magic on the décor. Together, we created something warm, stylish, and brimming with personality — just like them.

Laura was a vision in her unique embroidered gown from Brides & Bustles. The intricate detailing and dramatic cape brought both elegance and individuality to her look. Paired with a celestial-inspired headpiece, she radiated confidence and joy, embodying the essence of boho-chic.

The ceremony took place in the Dodford Manor wedding barn, where I flowered up a modern gold frame backdrop with pampas clouds, draped fabric and created fluffy pampas pew ends to tie the decor together seamlessly. The result was a cozy, romantic setting that perfectly framed their heartfelt exchange of vows.

The Personal Touches

Laura and Elliot’s wedding was a masterclass in personalisation. Their signage and stationery, designed by the talented Lucy March from her Aria collection, were a showstopper. The celestial inspired semi-circular and arch designs with gold tassels were chic and modern, but the real standout was the bespoke welcome sign.

With its faux film review text and sarcastic messaging, it had guests laughing before they even walked in.

"Brace yourselves for the wedding of Laura & Elliot"
"The Event of The Century"
"Why is it on a Thursday?"

Adding to the fun, the couple created their own goody bags as favours, containing mementos like stickers, fridge magnets and coasters featuring pictures of the couple inspired by the film Masterminds. Three oversized photos of Laura and Elliot striking hilarious poses in Masterminds-style were also displayed prominently, bringing even more laughter to the day.

Finally, a bespoke rum station was a hit with the guests, adding a playful and interactive element to the reception. It was the perfect complement to the fun and festive atmosphere.

It was these small, quirky details that made their wedding unique to them.

Stunning Florals and Decor

For the bouquets and buttonholes, the couple chose a palette of burnt oranges, creams, and neutral tones to evoke the warmth of autumn. I finished the bouquets and each buttonhole with a deep red, rust coloured ribbon which complimented the burnt colour palette beautifully.

I took Laura and Elliot to design their reception decor at Nerissa Eve's HQ in Northamptonshire; where the owner Nadine took the time to help the couple explore the design and visualise the tablescapes.

Tall dried flower arrangements on gold plinths chosen for three of the six tables, These were balanced by clusters of dried flowers in bud vases and towering Ester & Erik candles in modern gold candle holders. Every detail worked in harmony to bring their boho-chic vision to life.

A Wedding Full of Surprises

Instead of sticking to tradition, they served Indian food, which was bold, colourful, and absolutely delicious. Their music choices were just as unique — ska and reggae filled Dodmoor Manor with rhythm and soul mixed with old skool classics, keeping everyone on their feet.

And then… the evening guests got the surprise of their lives when drag queen Sandy Flaps burst onto the scene for a performance that blew the roof off. It was cheeky, vibrant, and completely unforgettable.

By the end, there wasn’t a single guest who wasn’t practically rolling on the floor laughing. It was a moment of pure joy that encapsulated Laura and Elliot’s energy.

Wedding Take Away

They showed me that weddings don’t have to be cookie-cutter; they can be stylish, meaningful, a little cheeky, and a lot of fun.

Let’s Plan Your Dream Day

I worked closely with the venue’s coordinator, and together we made magic happen. Having a planner meant Laura and Elliot could relax and enjoy their day, knowing someone was there to handle all the details and ensure everything ran smoothly.

If you’re planning your wedding and want a partner who’ll laugh with you, cry happy tears with you, and help create a day that reflects your unique love story, I’m here for you. From sarcastic stationery and pampas clouds to drag queens and rum bars; no detail is too small or too big. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable.